A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on March 28, causing massive destruction. According to geologist Jess Phoenix, the quake released energy equal to more than 300 atomic bomb explosions.

“The force that a quake like this releases is about 334 atomic bombs,” she told CNN.

She explained that the earthquake occurred because the Indian tectonic plate continues to push against the Eurasian plate beneath Myanmar. As a result, aftershocks and additional tremors may continue in the coming months.

Ongoing Civil War Worsens Crisis

Meanwhile, Myanmar’s ongoing civil war has made disaster relief even more challenging. Phoenix pointed out that the situation has already been difficult, but now it is almost impossible.

“What would normally be a difficult situation becomes almost impossible,” she said.

Myanmar has faced decades of political turmoil. After gaining independence from British rule in 1948, the country remained under military control for years. However, in 2011, it moved toward democracy. Then, in 2015, Aung San Suu Kyi’s party won the elections.

Unfortunately, the situation changed in 2021 when the military staged a coup. They removed Suu Kyi’s government, jailed its leaders, and accused them of election fraud. As a result, the country fell into civil war, leading to widespread violence and suffering.

Currently, Myanmar remains under military rule, and the United Nations estimates that at least 3 million people have been displaced. Additionally, many regions are too dangerous for aid groups to enter. Consequently, people struggle to access food, medicine, and basic necessities.

Death Toll Expected to Rise

So far, Myanmar’s military-led government has confirmed at least 1,644 deaths. However, authorities warn that the number may increase as rescuers continue to recover bodies from the rubble.

On Friday, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) predicted that the final death toll could reach 10,000.

India and China Provide Aid

Amid the devastation, neighboring countries have stepped in to help. Both India and China have sent humanitarian aid to Myanmar.

Meanwhile, Myanmar’s military leader, Min Aung Hlaing, has declared a state of emergency and called for international assistance.

“I have declared a state of emergency and requested international assistance,” he said. Furthermore, he confirmed that India had already promised aid. “I would like to extend an open invitation to any organizations and nations willing to come and help the people in need within our country.”

Shortly after, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced on X (formerly Twitter) that India had dispatched its first shipment of humanitarian aid.

“A search & rescue team and medical team is also accompanying this flight,” Jaishankar stated. “We will continue to monitor the developments and more aid will follow.”

Overall, Myanmar now faces both a natural disaster and a political crisis. With an increasing death toll and limited resources, international aid remains crucial for the survival of millions.